Karol Rosa beat Lara Procopio with a split decision Saturday to open the preliminary card at UFC on ESPN+ 15 in Shenzhen, China.
Take a look inside the fight with Rosa, a 24-year-old Brazilian who won her UFC debut.
Result: Karol Rosa def. Lara Procopio via split decision (29-28, 30-27, 28-29)
Updated records: Rosa (12-3 MMA, 1-0 UFC), Procopio (6-1 MMA, 0-1 UFC)
Key stat: In a mostly even fight statistically, Rosa had a narrow striking edge at 177-169 – but landed the fight’s only knockdown (video below).
Rosa on the fight’s key moment
“I wasn’t expecting the fight to be so even. I imagined she would try to clinch me and go for the takedown right away, but her striking game surprised me. Luckily, I was ready for anything. I knew she was a tough girl, but she surprised me.”
Rosa on getting comfortable in the UFC
“I was really calm coming into the octagon for the first time – maybe even too calm. But I felt at home (and) comfortable out there.”
Rosa on what she wants next
“For now, I don’t have any opponent in mind. I’m just happy for this win and whoever comes next, I will be ready.”
